Who's Buying All The Gold? | Clive Thompson

Who's Buying All The Gold? | Clive Thompson

Liberty and Finance:  2-22-2025

Retired wealth manager Clive Thompson discusses the current state of the gold market, noting its unprecedented price levels amid rising inflation. He highlights unusual patterns in the futures market, with delivery notices for gold significantly higher than typical.

Thompson explains that central banks are actively acquiring gold as a hedge against economic uncertainty, while political factors are also influencing market dynamics.

The world of finance is often complex and turbulent, requiring astute observation and seasoned experience to navigate successfully. Retired wealth manager Clive Thompson recently joined Liberty and Finance to share his insights on the current state of the gold market, and his analysis paints a picture of unprecedented circumstances driven by a confluence of economic and political factors.

Thompson, leveraging years of experience managing wealth through various market cycles, immediately highlighted the remarkable price levels gold is currently commanding. He attributed this surge, in part, to the persistently high inflation gripping economies worldwide, pushing investors towards the safe haven asset in droves.

However, the story doesn’t end there. Thompson pointed to unusual patterns emerging in the futures market that suggest a deeper, more complex dynamic at play.

Diving deeper into the underlying causes, Thompson emphasized the role of central banks. “Central banks are actively acquiring gold as a hedge against economic uncertainty,” he revealed.

With global economies facing potential recession, rising interest rates, and geopolitical instability, central banks are bolstering their reserves with gold, recognizing its intrinsic value and ability to hold its own during times of crisis.

Political factors are also heavily influencing market dynamics, according to Thompson. He didn’t elaborate on specifics, but the implication is clear: global uncertainty, trade tensions, and potential conflicts are all contributing to the demand for gold as a safe haven asset.

Despite the positive outlook for gold itself, Thompson offered a word of caution regarding gold mining stocks. He noted the underperformance of these equities relative to the price of gold, a discrepancy that warrants careful consideration. This divergence suggests that factors specific to the mining industry, such as operational costs, political risks in mining regions, and environmental concerns, are weighing on investor sentiment.

Ultimately, Thompson underscored the fundamental principle of diversification in asset allocation. While he believes gold offers a compelling hedge against economic uncertainty and inflation, he cautioned against putting all eggs in one basket. A well-rounded portfolio, diversified across various asset classes, remains the cornerstone of sound financial planning.

In conclusion, Clive Thompson’s analysis paints a compelling picture of a gold market operating in unprecedented territory. Driven by inflation, central bank demand, and geopolitical uncertainty, gold prices are reaching new heights. While the future remains uncertain, Thompson’s insights provide valuable guidance for investors navigating the complexities of the global financial landscape.

 His emphasis on diversification and understanding the nuances of the gold market, including the performance of mining stocks, is crucial for making informed investment decisions in these turbulent times.

INTERVIEW TIMELINE:

0:00 Intro

1:30 COMEX gold deliveries

15:00 Major shifts in gold market

20:00 Gold's price historically

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7G8br-KUFTk

News, Rumors and Opinions Sunday 2-23-2025

Note: All intel should be considered as "Rumors" until we receive official announcements ...and “Rates and Dates” could change anytime until we get to the banks/redemption centers.

RV Excerpts from the Restored Republic via a GCR: Update as of Sun. 23 Feb. 2025

Compiled Sun. 23 Feb. 2025 12:01 am EST by Judy Byington

Judy Note: What We Think We Know as of Sun. 23 Feb. 2025:  (RUMORS)

Trump has (allegedly) returned the US to the Gold Standard with the soon to be released new gold/asset-backed US Note.

Global Currency Reset Possible Timing:

Quantum Financial System Goes Live: Global Currency Reset (allegedly) in Motion the Greatest Financial Revolution of Our Time! … on Telegram

The Quantum Financial System (QFS) is (allegedly) no longer in testing—it’s here, actively running, exposing and recording every elite move as it rolls out globally. The countdown to full-scale launch has (allegedly) begun, and with it, the world’s financial landscape is about to change forever.

October 2024 QFS Deployment Updates: Since the start of the year, QFS has been in “beta” trials within select regions aligned against the global Cabal. These test areas now experience instant, secure transactions bypassing traditional banking, feeding data into the quantum ledger that’s invulnerable and transparent. Over 100 million real-time transactions daily(allegedly)  pass through QFS, each transaction documented and tracked within the world’s most secure ledger.

Banks in Turmoil: System “Glitches” as QFS Interferes: Since mid-November 2024, banks in key regions report “technical glitches” with frozen transactions and fluctuating balances. These are no random errors; they’re (allegedly) the first signs of QFS challenging traditional banking. As QFS runs parallel to legacy systems, it exposes every inconsistency, revealing fraudulent transfers and artificial inflation schemes. The Cabal’s banks are scrambling, (allegedly) terrified by QFS’s presence, which audits every move and shines a light on embezzled funds and manufactured scarcity.

Countdown to Global Currency Reset (GCR): The Global Currency Reset (GCR) is on the horizon, (allegedly)  bringing an asset-backed currency to replace fiat. Governments are already liquidating gold reserves into QFS, preparing for the largest wealth transition in history. Once this reset completes, fiat currencies will be worthless, replaced by an incorruptible system.

Military Oversight: Final Preparations for QFS Rollout: Military forces worldwide are (allegedly) securing key QFS nodes and testing sites, ensuring the system remains uncompromised. November 2024 marks a pivotal month, with special ops safeguarding regional hubs. This presence shows the stakes: if QFS fails, the Cabal regains control, but with soldiers securing these hubs, the elites’ last vestiges of power crumble.

Prepare Yourself: The Storm Will Break with QFS: From November 6, 2024, QFS is no longer a test—it’s the dawn of transparency, accountability, and freedom from Cabal control. The countdown has (allegedly) begun, and there’s nowhere left for the elites to hide. The Quantum Financial System is here to end every lie and deception ever used against us.

It was rumored that the Chinese Elders, who were backing the Global Currency Reset with their gold, had bought all the Cabal’s Central Banks across the World. Those banks had long been bankrupt and running on fiat monies that their leader, US Inc, printed at their convenience. Those international Banks were now merging with the QFS and taking a different role – they would no longer have access to individual bank accounts. All banks were converting to XRP Ripple digital gold/asset-backed currency.

Read full post here: https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/02/23/restored-republic-via-a-gcr-update-as-of-february-23-2025/

************

Courtesy of Dinar Guru:  https://www.dinarguru.com/

Fnu Lnu  Article: "The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) has announced General Tender No. (1/2025) for the supply, installation, and operation of 65 currency counting and sorting machines for its branches in Basra (35 units) and Mosul (30 units)."  Here we have another example of Iraq spending billions to build out a state of the art banking system. The $64,000.00 question is, when do we get to profit from these infrastructure expenditures? 

Frank26  Article:  "Expected visit of the Central Bank Governor to Sulaymaniyah"  Are you serious?  You're putting a new banking economic center?  Why?  You never have in the decades that I can remember.  Why?  Your rate of your currency is 1310.  You don't need this banking economic center in Erbil.  Why are you doing this?  Because there is a change in the banking structure system of Iraq.

The End of the US Dollar Is Here - This Will Be The New Financial System

VRIC :  2-22-2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmHHmBA4Emg

Secret 'Gold Tunnel' to New York Fed? "Military, Take Charge!" Mike Maloney

2-22-2025

Could there be a hidden tunnel linking major vaults in the heart of New York’s financial district?

 In this eye-opening episode, Mike Maloney dives deep into the growing calls for a full-scale audit of U.S. gold reserves - covering everything from Fort Knox to the Federal Reserve.

Discover why massive gold inflows to the United States are sparking alarm bells, hear the shocking truth about ‘paper’ gold versus real bullion, and learn why the silver market might be poised for an even bigger squeeze.

If you care about sound money, transparency, and the future of precious metals, this is a must-watch.

 Watch now and join the conversation about who truly owns America’s gold - and why the military might need to step in.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56ZYJftvXhc

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Morning 2-23-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

HOW US TRADE WARS ARE SHAPING THE CRYPTO MARKET

Trump’s trade war tariffs triggered volatility in crypto markets, with Bitcoin dropping to $91,200 before rebounding. While short-term turbulence persists, rising inflation could drive long-term crypto adoption as a hedge against devaluation. Investors should stay vigilant.

Over the past month, the crypto market has experienced notable price swings, with the total market capitalization oscillating between $3 trillion and $3.73 trillion. A key catalyst behind this volatility is President Trump. While his inauguration took Bitcoin to a new all-time high of $109,200, his recent trade war did the opposite.

The administration imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, along with a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, sending shockwaves through global markets including the crypto sector.

Although a temporary 30-day pause on these tariffs provided some relief, taking Bitcoin over the $100k mark, subsequent actions such as an additional 25% tariff on iron and aluminium left investors with a big question — How are these tariffs going to affect the crypto market?

The Reason Behind the Tariffs

The primary stated reason for these tariffs was to curb illegal immigration and prevent the inflow of contraband. However, many interpret this move as a strategic signal of US dominance over major economies.

Although Canada and Mexico quickly pledged to deploy around 10,000 personnel each to secure their borders—a move that led to a temporary pause in further tariff increases—the subsequent 25% tariff on iron and aluminium reveals a deeper strategic intent from the US.

This additional tariff indicates that the US is determined to maintain pressure on key industrial sectors, suggesting that the trade war is far from over.

How Did the Markets React?

The crypto markets had a knee-jerk reaction to the news taking Bitcoin to a low of $91,200. However, the market's resilience soon became evident when Bitcoin rebounded by over 10% in a single day, soaring to $102,000, and eventually stabilizing around $97,000. Similarly, altcoins experienced profit booking taking the market cap down to $3.4 trillion by the time the pause was announced.

The tariffs increased inflation fears and concerns over upcoming Federal Reserve rate decisions shifted investor sentiment. But a zoomed-out look at the markets would have helped investors see the hidden benefits of the trade war.

Long-Term Implications of the Tariff War

While the tariff-induced volatility has caused short-term corrections, there are long-term dynamics at play that could ultimately benefit the crypto sector. When a country increases tariffs, it often leads to higher inflation.

The US, for instance, imports billions of dollars worth of construction materials from neighbouring countries. Increased tariffs on these essentials drive up costs, potentially fueling inflation and weakening the dollar. In such scenarios, safe-haven assets like gold and crypto—tend to gain traction as investors seek protection against devaluation.

The recent CPI data showing a 0.5% increase in inflation is an early sign of the tariff war. Should the tariff war continue, it could create a macroeconomic environment where digital assets serve as an effective hedge against inflation. Coupled with improving regulatory clarity and growing institutional interest, this scenario may spur broader adoption of crypto over the long term.

Conclusion

The short-term turbulence triggered by Trump’s trade war offers a dual advantage for the crypto market. Firstly, it creates attractive entry points for investors, and secondly, it establishes a favourable environment for long-term sector growth.

While these conditions position Bitcoin and other digital assets on an upward trajectory, investors must remain vigilant and monitor trade developments closely to navigate news-driven volatility. Focusing on capital preservation and maintaining disciplined investment strategies will be key to capitalizing on future growth opportunities.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Economic Times

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS DISCUSSES ALTERNATIVE PAYMENT PLATFORMS TO BYPASS WESTERN FINANCIAL SYSTEMS

BRICS Advances Alternative Payment Systems to Reduce Western Dependence

BRICS nations are actively discussing the development of alternative payment platforms to reduce their dependence on American financial systems, Tass reported on Feb. 19, citing Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Addressing the Russian State Duma, Lavrov emphasized that the initiative was originally pushed by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

“This is being discussed in BRICS, at the initiative of [Brazilian President Luiz Inacio] Lula da Silva … The previous summit stated a decision on the necessity of developing a proposal on alternative payment platforms through finance ministries and central banks,” he detailed, elaborating:

Such proposals have been made, they suggest, in particular, the creation of a so-called transborder payment initiative, the creation of a reinsurance company, and the BRICS Clear settlement and depositary infrastructure.

The proposal aims to provide member states with greater financial sovereignty through independent transaction mechanisms.

The 16th BRICS Summit, held in Kazan from Oct. 22-24, 2024, marked a major milestone under Russia’s chairmanship. It was the first summit to include newly admitted members.

During the event, BRICS leaders formalized their commitment to alternative payment solutions through the adoption of the Kazan Declaration.

The declaration outlined key financial goals, including “the possibility of establishment of an independent cross-border settlement and depositary infrastructure, BRICS Clear, while member states’ finance ministers and central bank chiefs were tasked with properly continuing the consideration of the issue of using national currencies, payment instruments and platforms.” The move signals a collective effort to establish a financial system less reliant on Western institutions.

BRICS nations have been actively working to reduce their reliance on the U.S. dollar in global trade and financial transactions. Many member states have increasingly turned to local currencies in trade agreements, aiming to bypass Western-dominated financial systems.

The push for alternative payment platforms, such as BRICS Clear and a trans-border payment initiative, is distinct from discussions about a single BRICS currency.

While the payment platforms focus on enabling cross-border transactions using existing national currencies, the single currency initiative—still in early discussions—would require deeper financial integration and a shared monetary framework. Unlike a common currency, which demands extensive policy coordination, independent payment platforms allow BRICS nations to strengthen economic cooperation while maintaining control over their domestic monetary policies.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Bitcoin News

~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's Podcast Link

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

Q & A Classroom Link  

Follow the Roadmap

Follow the Timeline 

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Subscribe to Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Newsletter

Thank you Dinar Recaps

Ask 9 Questions To Choose the Right Financial Advisors

Rachel Cruze: Ask 9 Questions To Choose the Right Financial Advisors

Ashley Donohoe  Sun, February 23, 2025  GOBankingRates

Whether you’re selling a house, choosing tax strategies or making a retirement portfolio, handling complex financial situations on your own can lead to costly mistakes, missed opportunities and possibly legal issues. Money expert Rachel Cruze advises partnering with various types of financial advisors who have the knowledge to help you make better decisions and ensure you’re building wealth properly.

However, you should be prepared to put some time into finding trusted people who will focus on what’s best for your situation rather than just their profits from commissions or fees.

In a recent YouTube video, Cruze highlighted nine questions to ask when attempting to choose the right financial advisors — three each for tax and investing professionals.

Real Estate Agents

1. How Many Homes Did You Sell Last Year?

Asking an agent this question might help you avoid having your home on the market for too long. It will give you an idea of the agent’s selling skills and experience to compare with other potential agents.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau also suggested asking related questions about the types of properties the person has sold and their neighborhoods.

2. What’s Your Schedule and Availability Like?

Cruze discussed how the schedule of  agents can widely vary and impact your experience. For example, a full-time agent might be more dedicated to helping you any day of the week versus someone who occasionally sells houses as a side job. Make sure the potential agent has the time to meet with you when you’re available and will be committed.

3. How Much Commission Do You Get?

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/rachel-cruze-ask-9-questions-120106343.html

“Tidbits From TNT” Sunday Morning 2-23-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Opportunity or Risk? Parliamentary Oil Committee Explains the Impact of Rising Oil Prices on the Iraqi Economy

Zainab Al-Moussawi, a member of the Parliamentary Oil Committee, confirmed today, Saturday, that the rise in oil prices represents a great opportunity for Iraq to achieve financial stability, but at the same time it poses economic challenges if it is not managed wisely.

Al-Moussawi told Al-Furat News Agency that “the increase in oil prices leads to an increase in public revenues, which prompts the government to increase spending on salaries, services, infrastructure, and investment projects, which may enhance economic growth. However, she warned that this increase in spending may also lead to inflation if it is not well controlled.” 

She added, "The increase in oil revenues reduces the need to impose taxes or implement economic reforms that may be unpopular, which reduces pressure on the government to diversify sources of income." 

She stressed that "making the most of this opportunity requires wise financial policies that focus on diversifying the economy, enhancing investments, and reducing dependence on oil as the sole source of revenue."  link

Tishwash:  Deputy Speaker of Parliament: New US decisions may be issued regarding Iraq

Shakhwan Abdullah, deputy speaker of the Iraqi parliament, said on Saturday that the administration of US President Donald Trump may make new political and economic decisions regarding Iraq.

This came during his speech at a scientific conference on the present and future of Kirkuk, which was held at Soran University in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

In his speech, Abdullah explained that Kirkuk has always been the focus of conflict between the great powers due to its wealth of intellectual, mineral and natural resources. He added that its geographical location has made it face policies of Arabization and demographic change over the decades.

He stressed the need for all parties to work to restore rights to their owners in Kirkuk, with the aim of addressing the effects of previous policies that affected the city's demographics.

Abdullah confirmed that the Iraqi parliament has reactivated the Article 140 Committee, in a move aimed at abolishing the legacy of the Baath regime and addressing the changes that have occurred in the demographic composition of the areas covered by this article.

He also referred to his recent visit to the United States of America, where he returned to Iraq this morning. He explained that during the visit, he discussed the issue of Kirkuk and the disputed areas with the US Assistant Secretary of State and the head of the religious authority in the United States, noting that the American side views these areas with great importance.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives concluded his speech by pointing out that the new US administration may issue several political and economic decisions concerning Iraq and the United States, which has been discussed on several occasions with the federal government.  link

************

Tishwash:  Swiss Ambassador: Iraq is an important regional player and we seek to be an active element in local investments

The Swiss government appreciated the efforts of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani in developing bilateral relations and supporting investment.

The Swiss Ambassador to Iraq, Daniel Hohn, said during his participation in a dialogue session on the second day of the Baghdad International Dialogue Conference, today, Sunday, in Baghdad, that "there are great efforts made by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to restore relations between Geneva and Baghdad, and there are also common interests between the two countries, and there are important investment opportunities in Iraq that we seek to work on and enter the Iraqi market."

He added, "We have an Iraqi community that wants to return to Iraq to regain its interests, and we also have interests with Iraq that we are working to support and sustain," indicating that "the Swiss government realizes that Iraq is an important regional player in the region and has many investments, so we seek for Swiss companies to be a contributing and effective factor in achieving these investments."  link

Mot: .... Beeeeen - one of those mornings!!!

Mot: Thought fer the Daze 

MilitiaMan & Crew-Iraq Dinar News-Pressure Resume Oil Flow-Global-Radical Reform-Salaries-Value Natural Resources

MilitiaMan & Crew-Iraq Dinar News-Pressure Resume Oil Flow-Global-Radical Reform-Salaries-Value Natural Resources

1-22-2025

The Crew:  Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man

Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EKH4J2Msf0

DOGE to Expose Real Gold Price - LFTV Ep 211

DOGE to Expose Real Gold Price - LFTV Ep 211

Kinesis money:  2-21-2025

In this week’s Live from the Vault, Andrew Maguire discusses how DOGE could help expose the true state of US Treasury gold reserves, with a potential price reset prompting an overdue audit revealing multiple ownership claims and mismanagement.

 As physical demand rises and central banks rush to cover bullion leases, the balance of gold pricing power is shifting from West to East, with Asian buyers absorbing supply while Western institutions lose their grip on the market.

Maguire argues that Musk’s penchant for efficiency and cost-cutting, coupled with the inherent opaqueness surrounding US gold reserves, could lead to a long overdue and potentially explosive audit.

This audit, Maguire suggests, might reveal a complex web of multiple ownership claims and significant mismanagement within the US Treasury, ultimately impacting the global gold price.

The core issue lies in the lack of transparency surrounding US gold holdings. For years, speculation has persisted regarding the actual amount of physical gold underpinning official figures. A thorough, transparent audit – something that Musk’s DOGE could potentially trigger – would challenge the status quo.

Imagine the potential consequences if such an audit revealed that the reported gold reserves are overstated, heavily leased, or subject to multiple claims from various entities. This revelation could trigger a significant price reset, forcing a market reckoning with potentially dramatic implications for global finance.

But the potential exposure of the US Treasury’s gold situation isn’t the only factor at play. Maguire highlights a critical shift in the balance of power within the gold market. For decades, Western institutions have largely dictated gold pricing. However, a rising tide of physical demand, particularly from Asia, is starting to change the game.

Central banks, recognizing the inherent value and security of gold, are scrambling to cover bullion leases, further tightening the market. Simultaneously, Asian buyers, including China and India, are aggressively absorbing available gold supply. This escalating demand from the East is placing immense pressure on Western institutions, who are struggling to maintain their grip on price control.

While Western entities may be losing their influence, the demand from the East isn’t just about investment; it’s about securing a tangible asset in an increasingly uncertain global landscape. This growing appetite from Asia positions them as the new custodians of the gold market, driving value and influencing price discovery.

The confluence of these two factors – the potential for a US gold audit prompted by Musk’s DOGE and the burgeoning demand from the East – presents a compelling scenario for a potentially explosive shift in the gold market.

 If Maguire’s predictions hold true, we could be on the cusp of a significant price realignment, driven by a newfound transparency and a changing landscape of power.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UoEe4qn1a-E

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Saturday Afternoon 2-22-25

UN: Iraq Is Going Through A Critical Phase And Al-Sudani Has A Clear Vision For Reform

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mohammed Al-Hassan, stressed that Iraq and the Middle East region are going through a critical phase that requires unified efforts to ensure security and stability.

Al-Hassan said, during his speech at the seventh edition of the Baghdad International Dialogue Conference, that Iraq, with its long history, needs a constructive dialogue based on the country's interest, stressing the importance of cooperation to face challenges.

He pointed out that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has a clear vision for developing services and enhancing security and stability, stressing that the United Nations will continue to support Iraq in its efforts to achieve development and enhance stability.https://www.radionawa.com/all-detail.aspx?jimare=41240

Opportunity Or Risk? Parliamentary Oil Committee Explains The Impact Of Rising Oil Prices On The Iraqi Economy

Time: 2025/02/22 12:13:01 Read: 1,410 times   {Economic: Al Furat News} Zainab Al-Moussawi, a member of the Parliamentary Oil Committee, confirmed today, Saturday, that the rise in oil prices represents a great opportunity for Iraq to achieve financial stability, but at the same time it poses economic challenges if it is not managed wisely.

Al-Moussawi told Al-Furat News Agency that “the increase in oil prices leads to an increase in public revenues, which prompts the government to increase spending on salaries, services, infrastructure, and investment projects, which may enhance economic growth. However, she warned that this increase in spending may also lead to inflation if it is not well controlled.”

She added, "The increase in oil revenues reduces the need to impose taxes or implement economic reforms that may be unpopular, which reduces pressure on the government to diversify sources of income."

She stressed that "making the most of this opportunity requires wise financial policies that focus on diversifying the economy, enhancing investments, and reducing dependence on oil as the sole source of revenue."   LINK

Central Bank Sells Over $1 Billion In Auction Last Week

Time: 2025/02/22 13:24:24 Read: 1,020 times   {Economic: Al Furat News} The Central Bank of Iraq’s sales of hard currency in US dollars amounted to more than one billion dollars during the days in which it opened its auction last week.

During the past week, and during the 5 days in which the auction was open, it sold an amount of 1 billion, 456 million, 844 thousand, and 61 dollars, at a daily rate of 291 million, 368 thousand, and 812 dollars, which is a slight decrease from the previous week, when the sales rate was 293 million, 719 thousand, and 775 dollars.

He also pointed out that the highest dollar sales were on Monday, amounting to $298,486,800, while the lowest sales were on Tuesday, amounting to $286,030,709.

As for foreign remittance sales, they amounted to 1 billion, 383 million, 294 thousand and 61 dollars last week, compared to cash sales that amounted to 75 million, 550 thousand dollars.  LINK

Mazhar Saleh: Iraqi Banking Reform Needs To Enhance Transparency And Governance

Time: 2025/02/22 11:47:07 Read: 1,290 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} The Prime Minister's Advisor for Economic Affairs, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed today, Saturday, that banking reform in Iraq requires enhancing transparency and governance in the banking sector.

Saleh said in a statement to {Al Furat News} agency, "The operations carried out by banks operating in Iraq depend largely on the confidence of international correspondent banks in the local banking sector, which necessitates the need to provide great protection for Iraqi banks."

He pointed out that "the reform process must ensure that Iraqi banks are provided with the best transparency and governance tools, in addition to adopting the necessary applications to confront various risks and comply with international banking rules."

He added, "These measures are what everyone is looking forward to in the near future, to achieve stability and growth of the Iraqi banking sector and integrate it effectively into the international banking market."   LINK

Government Advisor: Iraq Advances 17 Places In Soft Power Index

Money and business  Economy News – Baghdad  The Prime Minister's Advisor for Financial Affairs, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, announced on Saturday that Iraq has advanced 17 ranks in the Soft Power Index compared to 2023, thanks to improvements in governance and infrastructure development, stressing that this progress reflects a noticeable improvement in the stability of the country's internal situation.

Saleh said in a statement reported by the official news agency, and reviewed by "Al-Eqtisad News", that "Iraq's occupation of the 98th position globally in the Soft Power Index for the year 2025 is an important matter in this leap during one transitional year between the end of 2023 and the end of 2024,

and looking forward to 2025, as it comes 17 places ahead of its previous classification in 2023, which embodies the progress and stability witnessed by our country in a remarkable way, after it was ranked 116th globally in the year before the previous one."

He added that "Iraq has achieved acceleration in the subject of soft power during one continuous year between 2023 and the end of 2024 and moving forward to 2025, and this acceleration comes from among a set of factors and indicators of soft power that are usually used by global institutions interested in measuring the extent of the state's influence in its global scope through non-military means, such as culture, diplomacy, education, values, and innovation."

He explained that "one of the most prominent indicators used in the soft power rankings, which Iraq enjoyed in 2024, is its distinguished international reputation in the framework of foreign relations,

as our country's diplomatic capabilities in influencing global affairs and its international image are at their best levels, which have increased in recent years due to the flourishing of foreign activities and the network of positive relations with other countries provided by Iraq's open democratic climate as one of the most important of these factors."

He pointed out that "political and security stability in Iraq has witnessed a significant improvement, as internal tensions and conflicts that negatively affected the country's image in the world have disappeared, which has helped enhance Iraq's soft power."

He pointed out that "the ability of the government program, which has advanced its applications in developing the infrastructure and continuous improvement in basic services, especially security and digital services, was accompanied by an advanced movement of institutional governance, as the efficiency and transparency of government institutions increased, with the approval of the 2024-2028 development plan,

which committed to sustainable development and environmental protection, and providing high attractiveness for investment after announcing the principle of partnership between the state and the private sector within the philosophy of the social market, and announcing the strategic development road project as a project for Iraq's progress forward."

He added that "the high degree of interest in civilizational and cultural openness has made Baghdad the capital of tourism and culture in the world, which undoubtedly reflects the quality of life and the prevailing societal values ​​of the civilization of the Tigris and Euphrates Valley, which dates back more than 7,000 years, in addition to the keenness to highlight the role of national heritage in general and different ethnicities in particular, which had a positive impact on the strength of societal diversity and its transition from the national level to the external level."

He added, "Diversifying the economy, sustainable development and moving away from the rentier economy remain among the challenges facing the rise of soft power.

This is what the government program is working on with great care, supported by the prevailing trend in economic, social and political thought circles in Iraq on an ongoing basis through the process of national support for comprehensive economic development programs for the state and government, to build a better Iraq forever."  https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=52914

 For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit:  https://www.bondladyscorner.com/

The US Government Has To Sell $28 Trillion Of Debt In The Next 4 Years

The US Government Has To Sell $28 Trillion Of Debt In The Next 4 Years

Notes From the Field BY James Hickman ( Simon Black )  February 19, 2025

Last summer, the Federal Reserve wanted you to believe that inflation was a thing of the past.

Sure, just about every category of consumer goods had increased in price. Electricity rates had increased 5% year over year. Rent and housing costs were up 5%. Hospital care had become 6% more expensive. Food prices were up. Fuel prices were up. Auto insurance had risen by a whopping 18.6%.

Yet, bizarrely, the overall inflation average was just 2.9%. And based on that number alone, the Federal Reserve had all but declared victory against inflation.

We knew it was BS. And, after diving into the numbers, it didn’t take us very long to realize why.

It turned out that, back in the summer of 2024, used car prices were falling dramatically— down around 11% year-over-year.

You probably remember what happened: during the pandemic, supply chain snarls and factory closures caused used car prices to go through the roof. Eventually, prices peaked... and then started to fall.

By July 2024, used car prices were still on their way down... essentially returning to a more ‘normal’ level. And based on the way that the government calculates inflation, the huge drop in used car prices dragged down the overall average, making the headline inflation rate appear smaller than it really was.

We wrote about this last summer. And we predicted that the decline in used car prices would soon cease... essentially eliminating the key drag that was holding the inflation rate down.

That has now happened. And as of last month, used car prices are no longer falling... and the overall rate of inflation is once again on the rise.

This is where our discussion begins in today’s podcast, and it’s an important one. We talk about why, at this point, lingering inflation is a major challenge. And it’s becoming a more likely scenario.

There are obviously some forces within the government that are working really hard to cut spending. There are also legions of misguided (or flat-out corrupt) politicians who are fighting to prevent those budget cuts from happening.

It’s a see-saw right now and could go either way. But, at least for now, the government is still spending taxpayer money like a drunken sailor.

Last year’s budget deficit was nearly $2 trillion. They’re already on track to repeat that this year. All of that deficit spending adds to the $36+ trillion national debt.

But what makes matters even worse is that an unbelievable $28 trillion of the national debt will have to be refinanced over the next four years, according to Federal Reserve data. (We show you the Fed’s data in the podcast— it’s a chart you’ll want to see.)

The key problem, of course, is that interest rates are significantly higher today than they were several years ago. So when the Treasury Department refinances that $28 trillion in debt, it will be at a MUCH higher rate.

Think about it— if most of that debt was sold at a 2% rate, but now they have to refinance at 5%, then that’s an extra 3% interest to pay on $28 trillion— or $840 billion per year in additional interest.

Remember that the government’s interest bill is already $1.1 trillion per year. So in four years it could easily eclipse $2 trillion per year. Again, this is just the amount of interest.

It’s also pretty clear that a lot of foreign governments and central banks— who own a huge chunk of that $28 trillion which needs to be refinanced— are looking to diversify away from the dollar.

It’s already happening; obviously there are the loudmouthed BRICS countries that have started trading with one another in their own currencies, and thus begun reducing their dollar holdings. But even supposed ally nations in Europe are starting to trade their US dollar reserves for gold.

This is setting up a precarious situation... because if foreign governments and central banks continue reducing their dollar exposure, then who is going to buy up all that $28 trillion worth of US government debt that needs to be refinanced?

Well, the only remaining lender is the Federal Reserve. And as we’ve discussed before, the Fed buys government bonds by printing money... which ultimately causes inflation.

During the pandemic, the Fed printed $5 trillion and we got 9% inflation. Over the next four years the Fed might have to print a good chunk of that $28 trillion just to help refinance US government debt. So what will inflation be? No one knows. But probably not their magical 2% target.

The only way out is to slash government spending. And certainly there is a lot of low hanging fruit for DOGE to cut, which could get the deficit (and therefore inflation) under control.

But this is far from a risk-free proposition. And that’s why it still makes so much sense to have a Plan B.

We discuss all this, and more, in today’s podcast— and we hope you take time to listen in here.

(For the audio-only version, check out our online post here.)

To your freedom,  James Hickman   Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/podcast/the-us-government-has-to-sell-28-trillion-of-debt-in-the-next-4-years-podcast-152106/

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Afternoon 2-22-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

HBAR FOUNDATION INVESTS IN TOKENIZED FIDELITY USD MONEY MARKET FUND

The HBAR Foundation has announced an investment in Archax’s tokenized shares of Fidelity International’s USD Money Market Fund.

Archax, the first FCA-regulated digital asset exchange, broker, and custodian, recently tokenized the MMF on the Hedera network.

The tokenized shares, available on the Archax platform, allow institutional investors to gain exposure to the fund through blockchain technology. These digital assets can also serve as proof-of-reserves for stablecoin treasury verification, enhancing transparency within the broader digital finance ecosystem, according to a company announcement.

The move highlights Hedera’s expanding role in institutional tokenization while advancing Fidelity International’s efforts to bring traditional financial products on-chain.

Last December, Hedera integrated Chainlink’s Data Feeds and Proof of Reserve on its mainnet to support DeFi and tokenized real-world assets. This followed a partnership between the HBAR Foundation and Chainlink, giving developers access to high-quality data and on-chain reserve verification.

Strategic investment

Gregg Bell, Senior Vice President at the HBAR Foundation, emphasized the strategic importance of the investment, stating, “Looking ahead to 2025, real-world asset tokenization will be a key catalyst for blockchain adoption. Our vision for a fully tokenized financial ecosystem aligns with Fidelity International’s commitment to innovation.”

He added that partnering with asset managers like Fidelity International is essential for accelerating institutional adoption.

The investment further strengthens Hedera’s push into institutional markets by leveraging its high-throughput infrastructure. The network’s ability to provide low-cost, fixed-fee transactions makes it an appealing option for financial institutions exploring tokenization.

The collaboration between the HBAR Foundation, Archax, and Fidelity International reflects a broader industry shift toward blockchain-powered financial products. As more institutions explore tokenization, partnerships like this could pave the way for greater adoption of digital asset infrastructure in traditional markets.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CryptoNews

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS NEWS:  BRAZIL PLANS TO REJECT BRICS CURRENCY

Brazil is considering dropping the idea of forming a new BRICS currency as it chairs the 17th summit in Rio De Janeiro in July 2025. Four government officials on the condition of anonymity revealed to Reuters that President Luiz Lula da Silva is planning to nix the idea of a common currency. The alliance is under pressure from Trump who threatened to impose tariffs if they ditch the US dollar.

The idea of developing a new BRICS currency could draw the ire of US President Donald Trump, who has vowed to crush anyone who plans to ditch the dollar for trade. Just recently, BRICS member India also denounced the formation of a new currency and embraced the US dollar for cross-border transactions.

After Rejecting BRICS Currency, Brazil Wants to End Reliance on the US Dollar

A government official revealed that Brazil wants to shelve BRICS currency but also aims to reduce dependency on the US dollar. 

The source explained that Brazil will provide solutions for ending reliance on the US dollar at the upcoming summit. The 17th summit is scheduled to take place on July 6-7 with the nine member countries being in attendance.

Two out of the nine BRICS countries have rejected the idea of the formation of a new currency. Only Russia, China, and Iran are aggressively advancing the de-dollarization agenda to uplift their respective economies. Russia and Iran are reeling under pressure due to sanctions and are desperate to trade in local currencies.

On the other hand, China is looking to dominate the global finances by pushing the Chinese yuan for trade. India is distancing itself from the idea fearing that China is using BRICS as a stepping stone to advance its global agenda. The cracks in BRICS are wide open even before the alliance has made the currency a reality.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

WHAT IS DOGE DIVIDEND CHECK? WILL YOU GET $5,000 STIMULUS CHECK? HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW

Wondering if you should expect a $5,000 check from DOGE? And, is it a stimulus, dividend or refund? Here's what we know so far about what it is and who would potentially get it.

President Donald Trump said he's considering a plan to pay out $5,000 stimulus checks to taxpayers in the form of a 'DOGE dividend' during a speech on Wednesday. He explained it as part to take 20% of the savings identified by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and give it back to the American taxpayers.

This 'DOGE dividend' idea was previously floated on Tuesday by Azoria investment firm CEO James Fishback on Musk's social media platform X, suggesting President Trump and Musk "should announce a ‘DOGE Dividend’ — a tax refund check sent to every taxpayer, funded exclusively with a portion of the total savings delivered by DOGE." To which, Musk replied "Will check with the President."

“The numbers are incredible, Elon. So many millions, billions — hundreds of billions,” Trump said in his speech. “And we’re thinking about giving 20% back to the American citizens, and 20% down to pay back our debt.”

The US national debt totaled $35.5 trillion in the 2024 fiscal year, a $1.4 trillion increase from 2023, according to the Treasury Department and US debt-to-GDP ratio rose by 2 percentage points in fiscal year 2024 from 2023.

Trump didn't share any further specifics or details about the possible 'DOGE dividend' or its certainty.

Albeit, Fishback's four-page proposal of the 'DOGE dividend' described it as a refund "sent only to tax-paying householders."

 Noting the difference from past stimulus checks, he added that DOGE checks would not be inflationary as they would be "exclusively funded with DOGE-driven savings, unlike COVID stimulus checks which were deficit-financed."

By definition, a dividend is a distribution of profits by a corporation to its shareholders and refund is a payment made back to a user that previously paid for something. A stimulus check on the other hand, is a direct payment to encourage spending and stimulate the economy by putting money directly into the consumers' hands.

What is DOGE?

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), officially the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization, is an initiative created by Trump and led by 'special government employee' Musk.

The mission of DOGE was to slash federal spending, deregulation and "modernize federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity."

How much has DOGE saved?

At the time it was introduced, DOGE's effort was to save as much as $2 trillion dollars a year. DOGE claims to have already saved $55 billion in government cuts so far, but the figure has not been verified.

The agency has made drastic cuts across federal agencies, including mass firings of federal workers. Some agencies that have already seen cuts include the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Department of Education, the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  USA Today

~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's Podcast Link

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

Q & A Classroom Link  

Follow the Roadmap

Follow the Timeline 

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Subscribe to Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Newsletter

Thank you Dinar Recaps

Monetary RESET Is Inevitable | John Rubino

Monetary RESET Is Inevitable | John Rubino

Liberty and Finance:  2-22-2025

John Rubino discusses the potential for the U.S. to follow a path similar to Argentina, where government downsizing may become necessary.

He highlights that entrenched interests and military profits are significant counterforces to these cuts, and the pushback from these groups could be substantial.

Stories of government workers being laid off could also influence Congress, slowing down the downsizing process. Rubino emphasizes that the U.S. is dangerously over-leveraged, with immense debt across various sectors, making a monetary reset inevitable.

The U.S. economy, burdened by escalating debt and the looming threat of inflation, may be headed for a reckoning. John Rubino, a seasoned financial analyst, recently joined Liberty and Finance to discuss the possibility of the U.S. following a trajectory similar to Argentina, a nation known for its cycles of boom and bust, and where severe government downsizing has become a necessary, albeit painful, reality.

Rubino’s warnings aren’t just abstract economic theories; they’re a stark assessment of the current financial landscape. He highlights the deeply entrenched interests that hinder any attempts to rein in government spending.

The sheer size of the U.S. military-industrial complex and the profits it generates for powerful corporations make significant budget cuts a political minefield. The pushback from these groups, Rubino argues, could be immense, stalling any meaningful reform.

Beyond the powerful lobbies, Rubino also points to the human cost of downsizing. Imagine the impact of mass layoffs of government employees, the stories filling news cycles and impacting congressional decisions. The political pressure to slow down, or even reverse, austerity measures could be overwhelming.

But the core of Rubino’s argument rests on the staggering levels of debt plaguing the U.S. He paints a picture of a nation dangerously over-leveraged, with unsustainable debt levels across the government, corporate, and consumer sectors.

 This massive debt, he believes, makes a monetary reset not just possible, but inevitable.

So, what can individuals do to protect themselves from this potential economic storm? Rubino’s advice is clear: invest in tangible assets, particularly gold and silver. He sees these precious metals as a vital hedge against the erosion of purchasing power caused by inflation, a likely consequence of the government’s ongoing struggle with debt.

However, Rubino’s concerns extend beyond simple financial survival. He also warns of the future transition to government-controlled monetary systems, a move that could significantly limit personal freedoms. In a world where the government controls every transaction, individual autonomy could be severely curtailed. The potential implications for privacy and personal liberty are profound.

While the comparison to Argentina might seem alarming, it underscores the urgency of addressing the U.S.’s unsustainable debt levels. Rubino’s perspective serves as a wake-up call, urging individuals to consider the potential for a significant economic shift and prepare accordingly. He champions a proactive approach: understand the risks, diversify your assets, and be aware of the potential for increased government control over your finances.

In conclusion, Rubino’s insights paint a worrying picture of the future, but they also offer a roadmap for navigating the potential challenges ahead.

 By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, individuals can better protect themselves from the potential economic storms brewing on the horizon. The time to consider these warnings is now, before the U.S. finds itself further down the path towards a potentially painful economic reckoning.

INTERVIEW TIMELINE:

0:00 Intro

 1:40 Trump's first month

8:30 D.C. culture

 19:00 Argentina vs U.S.

 23:00 Pushback to Trump

33:30 Dollar collapse

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrrZ6Y-_TG8